updated 07:19 pm EST, Wed January 9, 2013

Sony brings $200 double DIN Bluetooth receiver to CES

Sony's car audio booth at CES had a number of new and not-quite-ready for primetime technologies on display along with a new double DIN head unit, the WX-GT90BT. It is compatible with Sony's App Remote, which lets users control their compatible Android-powered smartphones through the car radio and vice versa through the dedicated app.

The App Remote app works with USB-connected iPhones and Bluetooth-connected Android smartphones. The app is free in either store. There is also Bluetooth support and an included remotely-mountable microphone for voice controls. A one-wire USB port is on the front of the unit, which will charge various smartphones and music players as well as pass data through it. Pandora is also integrated into the receiver, relying on a smartphone's data connection in order to stream music.

Not wanting to be outdone by the likes of JVC, which will soon have head units with MHL support out on the market, Sony was also showing prototype MHL connectivity demonstrations, HDMI connectivity for Apple's iPhone 5 that will allow video playback on XAV-series head units, and Wi-Fi-enabled AV receiver demonstration that will allow streaming multimedia content wirelessly. While the various options worked well behind glass, they were looping as a demo and we weren't able to interact with the hardware. Also, Sony hasn't yet decided when they will release the hardware using this gear.

The double-DIN will cost just under $200 and arrive in March. Five other Sony head units already support Sony's App Remote, including another double-DIN and four single DIN head units.